Late last week, North America’s premier music festival, Bluesfest proudly announced its long-term partnership with RBC Royal Bank. The partnership ensures the music plays on for another five years in the Nation’s Capital and further strengthens RBC commitment to culture in Ottawa.
“RBC Royal Bank is proud to partner with North America’s premier music festival because we have two great things in common: we both continue to evolve to provide our customers with the best possible experience, and we are 100 per-cent committed to Ottawa from both a business and cultural perspective,” said Jeff Boyd, Regional President, Ontario North and East, RBC Royal Bank. “This is great news for our customers, for Ottawa and for RBC Royal Bank. We are delighted that RBC Royal Bank and our customers will now be able to benefit from this new partnership and we look forward to growing and enhancing the festival over the coming years.”
“This new partnership will ensure the festival can continue to operate as one of the biggest festivals in North America for many years to come.” said Mark Monahan, Executive Director, Bluesfest. “RBC Royal Bank’s long-term commitment to Bluesfest now allows Cisco (former title sponsor) to focus its sponsorship on technology enablement.”
Monahan did not reveal the exact amount of the deal, but said it is in the millions of dollars. “It’s the most significant title deal we’ve done in the history of the festival,” he said. “It is a significant investment.”
The deal will not only provide financial stability, but also allow more money to be spent on artists. Last year’s talent budget was in the range of $5 million; performers included John Fogerty, A Perfect Circle, the Black Keys, Tragically Hip, Buddy Guy, Skrillex, Huey Lewis and the News, and many more.